Calidad fisicoquímica y microbiológica del agua embotellada comercializada de manera informal en el cantón Huaquillas

Abstract

Water is an important element in maintaining the health of all living beings. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the consumption of bottled water, so the question of whether the water sold daily is harmless and safe for the consumer is valid and needs an answer. To ensure safety, water must meet certain quality parameters that optimally mitigate deficiencies that could cause some type of disease, especially gastrointestinal ones. This study analyzes the physicochemical and microbiological quality of 4 brands of bottled water that are sold informally in the Milton Reyes parish belonging to the Huaquillas canton. This research arises from the concern for safety and public health, given the widespread consumption of bottled water in the region and the need for its consumption. To do so, based on the NTE INEN-2200, a careful study was carried out, detailing each physicochemical and microbiological parameter that bottled water sold in Ecuador must meet. Within the physicochemical analyses, parameters such as color, pH, turbidity, residual free chlorine, total dissolved solids and total hardness were evaluated. The results showed that some of the samples did not meet the established standards, presenting high levels of residual free chlorine and turbidity, which could imply a risk to the health of consumers. Regarding the microbiological analysis, the presence or absence of E. coli and P. aeruginosa was determined, where it was shown that several of the samples presented E. coli, which implies questions in the disinfection and processing measures during packaging and marketing. It is concluded that a certain percentage of the bottles of water sold informally in the Milton Reyes parish of the Huaquillas canton do not meet the necessary quality standards that guarantee consumer safety.